Brittney Griner sent to penal colony, whereabouts unknown
The two-time Olympic gold medalist, 32, was arrested in February as she attempted to leave Russia, where she played basketball during the WNBA offseason.
She testified in court that she used prescribed cannabis oil to treat pain from sports injuries, but forgot the cartridges were in her luggage when she packed her bags. haste for his journey.
American diplomats are under intense pressure to negotiate a prisoner exchange for Griner and Paul Whelanwho was arrested in 2018 and accused of being a spy.
Speaking to reporters at the White House after Tuesday’s midterm electionsPresident Joe Biden said there had been a number of discussions to try to secure Griner’s release.
“Hopefully now that our elections are over, there’s a willingness to negotiate with us more specifically,” Biden said. “I’m determined to get her home and get her home safely.”
Supporters say the Americans are being guarded as political pawns by the Kremlin amid continued fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“We are grateful for everyone’s support and hope that as nine months of detention approach, BG and all wrongfully detained Americans will be merciful and sent home for the holidays,” Colas said.
